News

Older residents prepare for New Age Games

Older residents in the borough got physical earlier this week in preparation for the New Age Games, which are launched on Thursday 18 November.

The physical training exercises took place at the newly opened outdoor multi-sports gym in Mabley Green called the adiZone, `which was opened this autumn.

The adiZone is free to use and open all year round. It incorporates basketball, football and tennis areas as well as an outdoor gym and open area to encourage the local community to get involved in sport.

The New Age Games which take place at Kings Hall Leisure Centre later this month are open to all Hackney borough residents who are 50 years old or above. The aim of the games is to create opportunities for adults and older people to try sporting and leisure activities, promote health and well-being and support independent living.

Councillor Guy Nicholson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games said: “This is a great way for Hackney residents to take part in the 2012 Olympiad. The New Age Games are a great opportunity for older people to keep fit, try different sporting and leisure activities and meet new friends.”

Rosalyn Allen, 62, from Victoria Park, said: “I think it’s good to encourage people to exercise because it keeps you fit and healthy and gets you out of the house. I would encourage other older people to exercise.”

Kwasi Appea-mensa, 76, from Dalston, said: “I would like to do more exercise, it’s a good thing to do. Exercise helps the joints and I’m hoping that I can find other ways to improve my health at the New Age Games."

The New Age Games offer adults aged 50+ the opportunity to register for free sport and physical activities throughout the year. During the games instructors will be on hand to offer assistance and advice. Activities will include archery, badminton, gym, soca aerobics, athletic and bowls. Health checks will also be available.

To register for this year’s New Age Games launch will run from 11am - 2.30pm and are being held at Kings Hall Leisure Centre 39 Lower Clapton Road E5 0NU. For more information on activities for older people in Hackney, please contact the Community Resource Team on 020 7275 7092.